Yes we definitely do in my experience.
I was born and raised in Italy and I've lived in Australia during the last 10 years. Before coming down under, I had a job where I had to move frequently so I've experienced coffee in many other countries as well. Australia is up there with Italy in my opinion. I've also heard good things about some parts of the US but I don't have first hand experience.
We do. Well, parts of us do, especially those parts with an Italian-identifying community. Australian-trained baristas are in demand globally as a consequence.
Yes, Melbourne is well known for it but everywhere is pretty good. Its theorized that's why Starbucks failed in Australia. No one would tolerate sugared up mud water made by untrained teenagers when high quality coffee is everywhere.
I mean there's still a few in the CBD and I like the different flavours, sure it's like smoking menthols but who cares? If it tastes good and you enjoy it - all the power to you.
They were actually sold off and are owned and operated by 7-11 Australia, not Starbucks anymore.